Links to articles

WSBA "A Primer on Forensic Animation"

Trial "Is Forensic Animation Right for Your Case?"

Findlaw "Multimedia Trial Presentations Increase Chances of Defense Verdicts at Trial"

MSBA Computer and Technology Law Section "Computer Animations at Trial: A Persuasive Tool to Be Utilized with Care"

HG Experts "Admissibility of Forensic Animations"

The Jury Expert "The Lesser Known Benefits of Forensic Animation"

American Bar Association "Less is More in the World of Trial Animations"

a successful forensic animation needs to be both effective and admissible

Effectiveness More

  • Increase understanding of testimony

  • Increase retention of information

  • Unify the mental images of the jury

Admissibility More

  • Animations are demonstrative or illustrative evidence, not substantive

  • Animations should meet the admissibility guidelines laid out in Clark v. Cantrell

    Clark v. Cantrell (529 S.E.2d 528, S.C. 2000)

    • Animation must be authentic

    • Animation must be relevant

    • Animation must be fair and accurate

    • Animation must have probative value